About Whale Watching in St Lucia
St Lucia on the elephant coast has boat-based whale watching trips to see these enigmatic giants who migrate annually from summer feeding grounds close to the poles, to the Equator where it is warmer for winter breeding.
Did you know? When you think of whale song, you think of the sound that the humpback whale makes. Their collection of moans, cries and howls can continue for hours and have made them rather famous.
St Lucia is a veritable Mecca for those that love wildlife and the outdoors that make South Africa such a desirable destination. It is situated in the balmy coastal province of KwaZulu-Natal, which has a humid climate that yields plenty of lush, subtropical greenery. The Indian Ocean laps along the full length of this coastline, which means warm waters and plenty of swimming opportunities.
St Lucia and the chance of seeing humpback whales ~ However, these waters are also loved by the many whales that frequent this part of the ocean, just a stone’s throw from the sand, every year. These are most often seen between mid-June and November. The most prolific species of whale seen off the coast of St Lucia is the playful, but enormous, humpback whale.
This cetacean is known for its charming antics and energetic performances, which are always a delight for onlookers. In fact, St Lucia has been rated one of the top whale watching sites in the country, thanks to having the highest recorded boat-based sightings of whales for the 2000, 2001 and 2002 period. In fact, to achieve this, St Lucia recorded almost 800 sightings. In second place was Shelley Beach, with only 145 sightings, which indicates how very popular St Lucia is among these playful cetaceans.
Because this part of the South African coastline is so warm, it is a common area in which the whales mate and give birth. Therefore, spectators will often see adult whale mothers swimming with a young calf at their side. This is a very special sight, leaving lasting memories for those that get to witness it.
Formal boat tours and whale watching expeditions are a must for first-time visitors. Between June and October, sightings of whales are all but guaranteed. Tourists are also very likely to spot a wide variety of other wildlife, including plenty of curious dolphins. which is what makes Whale watching in St Lucia so great!
Need to Know
WhereWhale Watching in St Lucia, St Lucia, Elephant Coast, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
WhenAnnually between mid-June and November.
OvernightStay in St Lucia Accommodation, KwaZulu Natal
Disclaimer
Please note, business details can change. While we endeavour to ensure all information provided by the service provider is correct at the time of publication, we do not assume any liability caused by errors or changes, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please check with the provider that the activity/business is still offered as described, before making any travel plans.
Feedback?
If this is your attraction, you can let us know if anything on this page is outdated or contains inaccuracies, by email. We regret, we do not have any other information, please contact the provider if you have questions.
Additional Reading
You might also be interested inAll About The Whales
Want to go whale watching in South Africa? South Africa is known as one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Explore our 'whale watching' pages below to find out when, where and how to see the whales in South Africa...
The Whale Route
The Whales
Where to See Whales
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options in St Lucia

57 Pelican Street
57 Pelican Street provides pet friendly, self catering accommodation in St Lucia. The house consists of four bedrooms and three full bathrooms. T...

Lidiko Lodge
Lidiko Lodge is a 4 star lodge situated in the village of St Lucia, surrounded by the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park. Set above the Great St Lucia...

St Lucia Escape
St Lucia Escape is a small family run establishment offering two self-catering holiday homes and an apartment. We are close to the beaches close ...

Pelican's Nest Holiday Home
Pelican's Nest Holiday Home St Lucia is a spacious self catering holiday home in St Lucia. The house has three bedrooms and sleeps up to six gues...

Monzi Safaris Backpackers
Monzi Safaris Backpackers is situated on the main road of St Lucia. We differ from every other backpacker in that we do not have any dorm rooms. ...

Turtle Bay Lodge
Turtle Bay Lodge offers luxury accommodation in the serene area of St Lucia only a short walk from the town centre and the estuary. Choose from o...

Fishermans Flat
Fishermans Flat is a two bedroom apartment that can sleep up to six people. The main bedroom has a king size bed which can be converted to twin b...

St Lucia Kingfisher Lodge
St Lucia Kingfisher Lodge is situated at the edge of town which means that whilst the shops, restaurants and other amenities are only a 10 minute...

68 The Bridge
Situated in a secure complex on the banks of the St Lucia Estuary, 68 The Bridge offers self catering accommodation in St Lucia for two adults an...

Bushpigs Haven
Bushpigs Haven is a stunning three-bedroom, St Lucia self catering home that is set on the banks of the St Lucia estuary. Guests are surrounded b...

Forest Lodge
Forest Lodge is set in a tropical forest and garden, which is unique to the Zululand area of KwaZulu Natal. The lodge offers 17 en-suite rooms wi...

Pumba's Den
Pumba's Den offers accommodation in an apartment for four guests. The apartment can be found at Manzini Chalets in St Lucia. Pumba's Den has gard...

Elephant Lake Hotel
The Elephant Lake Hotel is located on the shores of the St Lucia Estuary in the town of St Lucia, KwaZulu Natal, surrounded by the iSimangaliso W...

Shonalanga Holiday Apartments
Shonalanga Lodge offers you beautiful one and two bedroom self catering holiday apartments / units in this spectacular setting. Some units are of...

33 The Bridge
33 The Bridge is a holiday apartment providing accommodation for up to six guests with a view of the estuary in St Lucia. Guests may even get luc...

Sweetest Spot
Sweetest Spot is a spacious four bedroom self catering home in St Lucia, a popular holiday destination. The house offers comfortable accommodatio...

Chane Cheese Farm & Lodge
Chane Cheese Farm & Lodge is situated 10km from Mtubatuba and 20km from St Lucia and offer self catering accommodation. Surrounded by green fores...

Umlilo Lodge
Umlilo Lodge is a guest house situated in the small village of St Lucia, the only private village in the world to be completely surrounded by a W...

At Heritage House
At Heritage House is situated in the heart of iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Enjoy the refined style and modern comforts that the house has to offer....

Kings Palace
Kings Palace is situated in the beautiful, tropical town of St Lucia, in the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park. Ideal for an overnight stop, your annual...

Cane Cutters Estate
Cane Cutters Estate offers both B&B and self catering accommodation in a choice of rooms and chalets. The guesthouse is just a few kilometers fro...

African Dreamz
African Dreamz is an Elephant Coast guest house located in the quaint little town of St Lucia, bordering the Isimangaliso Wetland Park. Discover ...

Maputaland Guest House
Maputaland Guest House offers bed and breakfast accommodation in the area of St Lucia. We are well known for our warm hospitality, comfortable ac...

Ndiza Lodge and Cabanas
A panoramic view of the Indian Ocean, famous Maphelane dune (second highest dune in the world), the Umfolozi River mouth and part of famous Lake ...

St Lucia Wetlands Guesthouse
International reputation, conveniently located in the safe and visitor friendly residential village of St Lucia, an appealing gateway to the worl...

Livingstone Lodge
St Lucia Livingston Lodge, situated in the heart of St Lucia, offers accommodation in luxury suites with free capped Wi-Fi. There is a stunning p...

Lake St Lucia Lodge
Lake St Lucia Lodge offers self catering, serviced cottages within walking distance of nearby restaurants, shops and pubs on the main street of t...

Marlin Lodge
Marlin Lodge is a Bed & Breakfast in St Lucia, KwaZulu Natal. The spacious rooms each have an outside entrance and open onto the patio leading on...

Parkers Cottages
Found in the town of St Lucia, Parkers Cottages offers bed and breakfast accommodation in a number of rooms and cottages. The accommodation is ju...

Forest Lodge
Forest Lodge is set in a tropical forest and garden, which is unique to the Zululand area of KwaZulu Natal. The lodge offers 17 en-suite rooms wi...

The Bridge 17
Set in The Bridge Holiday Resort in St Lucia, The Bridge 17 offers comfortable accommodation for four guests. The apartment is situated on the ba...

Pelican Pad @ St Lucia
Pelican Pad @ St Lucia offers accommodation in St Lucia, this lovely little resort is secure, comfortable and friendly. Nicely secluded, the reso...

Lalapanzi Guest House
Situated in St. Lucia, one of the most beautiful unspoiled areas and the first World Heritage Site in South Africa, a warm welcome and personal s...

Wendy's Country Lodge
Wendy’s Country Lodge is a nature lover’s delight and offers Elephant Coast B&B accommodation in a property with bird life in abundance. The gues...

Stokkiesdraai
Located in the main street, this St Lucia accommodation is within walking distance of convenience stores, a launderette, restaurants and a bank. ...

Lake St Lucia Villas
Lake St Lucia Villas is family friendly and offers ground floor, second floor and duplex apartments, which are ideal for a self catering holiday....

Kwalucia Private Safari Retreat
Located in the beautiful town of St Lucia, Kwalucia Private Safari Retreat offers accommodation in four suites. Kwalucia Private Safari Retreat i...

Little Eden
Little Eden offers up market and tastefully decorated self catering accommodation bordering the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, with real hospitality ...

Serene-Estate Guesthouse
Serene-Estate Guesthouse is situated at the edge of St Lucia bordering the famous iSimangaliso Wetland Park and only 10 minutes walk from all the...

Manzini Chalet 5
Manzini Chalet 5 offers Elephant Coast self catering within a very secure complex based on the banks of the St Lucia Estuary. The complex has 24h...

Lodge Afrique
Lodge Afrique Guest House offers eight free standing luxurious thatched suites, each with full Afro / Victorian bathrooms. Lodge Afrique can cate...

Perna Perna
Perna Perna offers accommodation in a secure complex which is ideally situated a few minutes’ drive from the town's restaurants and tour companie...

Elephant Coast Guesthouse
Elephant Coast Guesthouse offers 4-star bed & breakfast accommodation overlooking the coastal dune forest of The Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park. ...

African Ambience
African Ambience can accommodate a total of nineteen guests and is located in St Lucia which is part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. The beach ...

AmaZulu Lodge
AmaZulu Lodge, an "all African lodge", completely thatched, offers you the best of St Lucia Wetlands Park. Built around a huge, tropical inner ga...

Hilltop Guest House
Hilltop Guest House is a modern guest house with an antique twist. We have combined natural elements to our property and we offer a service that ...

Meet Mekaar Resort
Regard Meet Mekaar Resorts as your new oasis - everything is at your disposal and everything is included for you to bask in the glory of authenti...

Sunset Lodge
Sunset Lodge is situated on the banks of the St Lucia Estuary, a world heritage site. The accommodation is ideally located and is within walking ...

Flamingo Holiday Flats
Flamingo Holiday Flats is situated in St Lucia and offers accommodation within safe walking distance from the numerous restaurants and shops in t...

St Lucia Ocean View Lodge
St Lucia Ocean View Lodge offers log cabin accommodation set in a beautiful garden where many species of birds and small animals can be found. A ...

The Bridge 19
The Bridge 19 is located in a secure resort on the bank of the St Lucia River mouth. The apartment is fully equipped for a self catering holiday ...

12 The Bridge
Situated in next to Lake St Lucia, in The Bridge Complex, 12 The Bridge is an apartment that accommodates up to four guests. The establishment is...

La Dolce Vita 1
Make La Dolce Vita your home away from home (sleeps 2 - 8 guests). This is the perfect accommodation option for families or a group of friends vi...

Makakatana Bay Lodge
Makakatana Bay Lodge is a family owned and run lodge offering accommodation on the western shores of Lake St Lucia, within the iSimangaliso Wetla...

Afrikhaya Guest House
Afrikhaya Guest House is a tastefully decorated Bed & Breakfast in St Lucia offering warm hospitality, spacious and stylish well appointed guestr...

6 Villa Mia
6 Villa Mia is located in a mini resort offering guests a wide range of opportunities and activities. The resort accommodation can be found in St...

Timone's Retreat
Timone's Retreat is a lovely two bedroom chalet offering St Lucia self catering in the Manzini Chalets complex. Timone's Retreat is close to vari...

The Bridge Apartments
The Bridge Apartments offers one, two and three bedroom apartments in St Lucia. The Apartments offer cable TV, daily cleaning service, laundry an...

15 The Bridge
15 The Bridge is a luxury self catering apartment located in a secure complex on the banks of the St Lucia Estuary. The air conditioned apartment...

The Bridge 41
41 The Bridge offers self catering accommodation for six guests. The unit is set amongst trees and a marsh; the bird life is abundant. The unit h...

A La Mer Guest House
Situated in St Lucia, A La Mer Guest House offers accommodation just a few minutes’ walk from the beach and is perfectly located to enjoy all tha...

Ingwenya Lodge
Ingwenya Lodge is situated in St Lucia on the border of the nature reserve, with a view of both the sea and the estuary and offers six self cater...


St Lucia Ecolodge
St Lucia Ecolodge is situated in a lavish tropical garden with breathtaking views over the St Lucia Wetlands and Estuary mouth of Lake St. Lucia ...

17 Manzini Holiday Resort
Situated in a secure complex on the banks of the St Lucia Estuary, 17 Manzini Holiday Resort offers accommodation for three adults and two childr...

The South Sea's Safari
The South Sea's Safari is a self catering apartment located in St Lucia where you can enjoy a sunset view. The apartment sleeps six guests in two...

The Bridge 29
The Bridge 29 is a self catering holiday apartment for accommodation in St Lucia. The main bedroom has a Queen-size bed and the second bedroom ha...

18 Villa Mia
Located in St Lucia, 18 Villa Mia provides accommodation for six guests. The complex has a communal swimming pool and braai area which guests are...

Annas' Bed and Breakfast
Anna’s B+B is a quality 4 star guesthouse situated within easy walking distance of shops and restaurants. The large spacious house has 4 sunny ai...

Leopard Corner
Leopard Corner borders the St Lucia Wetlands, which starts right beside the guest house. Often our guests are lucky enough to catch sight of monk...

Rhino Coast Guesthouse
The Rhino Coast Guesthouse is an upmarket, luxury Bed & Breakfast situated in the town of St. Lucia. It offers a tranquil escape for the discerni...


Umfolozi River Lodge
Umfolozi River Lodge offers ideal accommodation for both businessman and family alike and is situated on 13 hectares of lush forested hillside ov...

iGwalagwala Guest House
iGwalagwala Guest House is located in The Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, now known as Isimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa's first natural Wor...

Sandpiper Guest House
Sandpiper Guesthouse is a bed and breakfast bordering the indigenous forest in the village of St Lucia surrounded by the Isimangaliso Wetland Par...

Elephant Lake Inn
The Elephant Lake Inn is located in the town of St Lucia, KwaZulu Natal, surrounded by the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa’s first World ...


Bhangazi Lodge
Bhangazi Lodge is set in the scenic, tranquil tropical St. Lucia town, surrounded by the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, offering 4 star graded Bed & ...

Urban Glamping
Urban Glamping is situated on the main road of St Lucia, the gateway to the Isimangaliso Wetland Park. This Luxury tented lodge is not what you w...

Monzi Safaris Lodge
Monzi Safari Lodge is situated 20km outside of St Lucia inside the secure village of Monzi. This security complex has an abundance of bird life a...

No 6 The Bridge
Located in St Lucia No 6 The Bridge offers comfortable self catering accommodation for up to six guests. This unit is on the first floor, accesse...

Shonalanga Holiday Apartments
Shonalanga Lodge offers you beautiful one and two bedroom self catering holiday apartments / units in this spectacular setting. Some units are of...
Things to do in the area

Bhangazi Horse Safaris
On the shorter rides we begin at the Iphiva Campsite in St Lucia and ride in the Reserve just to the south of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Here...

Beach Rides on Horse Back
We take the horses out along Iphiva Beach at the northern end of St Lucia where there are many kilometres of clean white sand with the Indian Oce...

Cape Vidal Lighthouse
A river, a forest and an ocean are all individual attractions that a good getaway can be planned around. Where there is river, brown earthy soil;...

Whale Watching with St Lucia Charters
Go on an adventure with renowned skipper Danie Bennett, who together with his qualified crew has a treasure-house full of knowledge about the wha...

Cape St Lucia Lighthouse
Despite sounding as though it should lie right on the well-known lake and conservation area, now called the iSimangaliso Wetland park, Cape St Lu...

St Lucia Beach
The unspoilt beach of St Lucia is yet another testimony to the natural splendour of the KwaZulu-Natal coastline. Golden sands and warm blue water...

St Lucia Market
Tucked away in St Lucia at the end of McKenzie Street you will find the most wonderful market. Here you can find a vast selection of curios and f...

Mziki Trail
Start: Mount Tabor hut, iSimangaliso Wetland ParkFinish: Mount Tabor hutDuration: 40 kmFitness: moderate to difficultOur tip: head to the Mission...

Igwala Gwala Forest Trail
Start: Eden Park, St Lucia, iSimangaliso Wetland ParkFinish: St LuciaDuration: 1.5 kmFitness: easy, suitable for all ages, including moms with pr...
Accommodation convenient to Whale Watching in St Lucia
FIND / South Africa Accommodation / KwaZulu Natal Accommodation / Elephant Coast Accommodation / St Lucia Accommodation